Speed limits lowered on Utah interstates due to elk collisions

The Utah Department of Transportation (DOT) is lowering speed limits on major interstates due to “numerous” crashes involving elk.

On February 9, Utah DOT announced that speed limits will be temporarily lowered to 60 m.p.h. on I-80 and I-84 near the Echo Junction in Summit County due to elk crashes.

As many as 35 elk have been hit by vehicles in the area in a week, KSLTV reports.

Utah DOT is also adding signage to warn drivers about elk.

Officials offered the following tips to help drivers avoid elk strikes:

• Slow down, especially whenever visibility is reduced. Wildlife is most active around dusk and dawn.
• Be alert! Scan both sides of the road for wildlife.
• Know the wildlife “hot spots” or local places where deer and elk often cross the road and watch for wildlife crossing signs.
• Use high beams as much as possible at night, especially in deer-active areas.
• Watch for the reflection from animals’ eyes and for silhouettes on the shoulder of the road. If anything looks slightly suspicious, slow down.
• If you see one, there are more nearby. Deer and elk travel in herds.